Used car repair costs surge by 20% year on year, says Warrantywise
The average repair cost for the UK’s ten most popular used cars rose by 20% in 2024, with models like the Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Astra seeing the steepest increases, according to new Warrantywise data.
Warrantywise has reported that the average cost of repairs for the ten most popular used cars in the UK rose by 20% in 2024 compared with the previous year, based on newly analysed claims and market data.
The analysis, which uses registration data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), shows that certain models have seen particularly sharp increases in average repair costs.
Among the most affected were the Ford Fiesta and the Vauxhall Astra. According to Warrantywise, the Fiesta – the most popular used car in 2024 – saw repair costs rise by £228, a 25% increase, while the Astra rose by £234, a 28% jump.
In contrast, the Volkswagen Polo saw only a 3% increase in average repair cost, up £22 year on year, marking the lowest rise in the top 10 list.
Antony Diggins, managing director of Warrantywise, said: “Our latest Reliability Index data from 2024 reveals some key trends for car owners to be aware of. With repair costs continuing to rise, it’s something all motorists will need to consider – especially given the wider economic challenges and inflation in the UK.
“Looking at the most popular choice of used car from 2024 to 2025, our reliability data highlights the importance of making informed decisions when buying second-hand.
“That said, our data offers valuable insights for anyone looking to buy a used car or wanting to understand the potential repair issues with their current vehicle.
“It is also a reminder that cars are complex machines, even the most reliable ones can develop faults – no vehicle is completely immune.
“We urge drivers to check the latest Reliability Index from Warrantywise if they’re looking to buy a used vehicle, to give a real-world indication on reliability.”
Despite the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) falling from 7.3% in 2023 to 2.5% in December 2024, vehicle repair costs are not tracking with this trend. Warrantywise warned that rising repair costs could hit owners of out-of-warranty used cars particularly hard.
The company’s analysis covered SMMT’s list of the most popular used cars sold in 2024.
